Fall in San Francisco is the ideal time to visit the city. The summer fog disappears and leaves days sunny, warm and clear for outdoor adventures. With its many parks, museums and districts, it is next to impossible to run out of things to see and do in San Francisco. From hot air balloon and ferry rides to the distinctive cable cars, there are several ways to see the city.
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park has enough attractions to fill the day if not more. There are footpaths, fishing areas, and picnic spots. Rent a bicycle for the day and visit the Japanese Tea Garden, the Strybing Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, the DeYoung Museum of Art and the California Academy of Sciences. Visitors to the CAS can also get free admission to Steinhart Aquarium, Morrison Planetarium and Kimball Natural History Museum on the third Wednesday of each month. Access the park easily from 19th Avenue.
The Palace of Fine Arts is situated near Golden Gate Park. It was originally constructed for the Panama Pacific Exposition in 1915. From the 1950s through 1975, the Palace went through a reconstruction process and is one of the most romantic places in the city. There is a 1,000 seat theatre and the Exploratorium in the gallery area.
Coit Tower
Sitting on top of Telegraph Hill is Coit Tower, constructed in 1933. Hike the steep hill or take the steps on Filbert Street. One recommendation is to take the Filbert Street steps on the way up and the nearby Greenwich Street Stairs on the way back down. The tower itself provides stunning 360-degree views of San Francisco. Inside the tower is decorated with murals and frescoes that tell the histories of daily life in the city's many districts.
Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39
Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39 may be a bit touristy, but the seafood offerings can't be beat. Enjoy a sourdough bowl filled with fresh clam chowder on the pier with views of San Francisco Bay after a day of exploring the city. Catch the cable car from Fisherman's Wharf and enjoy a unique tour of the city streets.
If fancying some espresso, pastries and Italian cuisine, Little Italy is situated between Fisherman's Wharf and Chinatown. Along the tree-lined streets are restaurants serving up some of the best Italian food on the West Coast. The patios are usually open when days are nice. Sit outside and enjoy a European feel in the midst of San Francisco.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
A gratifying way to see the city, and the surrounding areas is a ride in a hot air balloon. Throughout the sunny fall days, balloons can be seen dotting the sky. There are rides over San Francisco, but venture a bit further north and take a peaceful ride over Napa Valley wine country.
San Francisco is a city with much to offer from its many districts, each with unique flavors and qualities. Its parks, and the surrounding areas. Exploration and adventure are waiting there.
Olivia Benson - Olivia Benson has been writing full-time since 2010, though it’s a craft she’s been passionate about since she figured out how ...
